OSHA regulations to help control occupational diseases, such as 29 CFR 1910.134 which specifically covers the requirements to protect against inhalation of contaminated, harmful air. All respiratory equipment that is "tight-fitting" requires an initial and annual fit test. *  

The hierarchy of controls asks: Can you eliminate the hazard? Or can you substitute the hazard? If not, can you engineer it "safer"? Or can you implement administrative controls such as operating procedures?
Once all of this has been addressed first... Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must then be utilized if the hazard is still present or potential.

Quantitative (QNFT) and Qualitative (QLFT) methods will be used as required by the standard. Filtering Facepieces (i.e., N95, "dust mask") and Half Facepieces are permitted to use the QLFT method or at least a 100 fit factor to pass QNFT. All Full Facepieces are required to use the QNFT method with at least a 500 fit factor to pass. A brief respiratory training will be provided for employees at time of testing - Full-day Respiratory course available in our Process Safety Series.

Many facilities are susceptible to atmospheric contamination but are unsure of their legal obligations - MySafety can provide hazard assessments to ensure your team has proper PPE available for their assigned tasks. 
To better guide your team through the OSHA respiratory process, refer to our Respiratory Flowchart! 

Respiratory Fit Testing is FREE when scheduled with any course from our Hazmat Series!**

*Medical clearance is required under 1910.134 for all respirator- Evaluation must be conducted prior to fit test and respirator use. Please contact for assistance scheduling appointments with a local physician.

**5+ participants must be included at time of booking to receive fit testing free of charge. All fit testing must be able to be completed during scheduled course time. Additional charges may apply if fit testing must be conducted anytime outside of the scheduled course time. Click on Learn More for FAQs.